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Award-Winning Social Studies Substitute Tutors

Michael

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Michael

Bachelor in Arts
Michael's other Tutor Subjects
AP Statistics
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Statistics

I'm now a few years removed from academia, I still consider myself an intellect at heart. Stints at New York University's Stern School of Business and Northwestern University have given me extensive scholastic training, and running my own private tutoring service throughout college as a means of mak...

Education

Northwestern University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
ACT
33
Gagik

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Gagik

Doctor of Philosophy, Physics
Gagik's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Linear Algebra
College Algebra
Multivariable Calculus

I am a graduate of Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan, where I completed my Ph.D. program in Physics. I was doing research in physics for many years, but it always comes a time when you feel you must pass your knowledge to other people, especially those of new generation. So, I started teac...

Education

Jagiellonian University

Bachelor of Science, Physics

Wayne State University

Doctor of Philosophy, Physics

Cathy

Certified Tutor

5+ years

Cathy

Doctor of Philosophy, Materials Science
Cathy's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Geometry

I am an avid reader; my favorite genres are science fiction and historical fiction. I love hiking, alone or with family and friends. I have been a long-time contemporary/modern dancer and currently enjoy yoga. I also play acoustic guitar and sing.

Education

Princeton University

Bachelor of Engineering

University of Pennsylvania

Doctor of Philosophy, Materials Science

Ainsley

Certified Tutor

4+ years

Ainsley

Bachelor of Science in Physics
Ainsley's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math

I am a graduate of Rice University with a Bachelor of Science in Physics, a Bachelors of Arts in Philosophy, and a minor in Neuroscience. My previous tutoring experiences have primarily focused on college level physics, math, and chemistry; AP Calculus, AP Physics, and AP Chemistry; the ACT and SAT ...

Education

Rice University

Bachelor of Science in Physics

Test Scores
SAT
1400
ACT
33
Soung

Certified Tutor

5+ years

Soung

Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry
Soung's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
College Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math

I'm a highly skilled, professional tutor with over 20 years experience. I have an exceptional ability to teach math to students with severe learning challenges. I make all levels of math understandable and foster confidence in the student. I'm also expert in SAT/ACT test preparation and high school ...

Education

University of Chicago

Bachelor in Arts, Chemistry

Northwestern University

Doctor of Science, Molecular Pharmacology

Troy

Certified Tutor

Troy

Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology (business focus)
Troy's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Arithmetic
Trigonometry
Geometry

I am an Arizona native. Upon graduating from Desert Mountain High School, I attended Rice University and I received my Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology with a business focus. At Rice I was a student/athlete representing the Division I Owls in track and field. After several years experience voluntaril...

Education

Rice University

Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology (business focus)

Test Scores
SAT
1360
Michael

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Michael

Bachelor of Engineering Science in Chemical Engineering
Michael's other Tutor Subjects
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Competition Math

I am a graduate of Yale University. I received my Bachelor of Engineering Science in Chemical Engineering. Since graduation, I earned a certification to teach English as a Second Language, and traveled to Beijing, China, where I taught at both primary and high school levels (including several math a...

Education

Yale University

Bachelor of Engineering Science in Chemical Engineering

Steven

Certified Tutor

6+ years

Steven

Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering
Steven's other Tutor Subjects
AP Calculus BC
AP Calculus AB
Pre-Algebra
Trigonometry

I'm looking forward to working with you. My degree is in Mechanical Engineering, so I can assist with that (mechanics would be my specialty there). I can definitely assist with math through Calc 1. I can assist with most Physics, and some Chemistry.

Education

University of Louisville

Bachelor of Science, Mechanical Engineering

Andrew

Certified Tutor

15+ years

Andrew

Bachelor in Arts
Andrew's other Tutor Subjects
Pre-Algebra
Pre-Calculus
Middle School Math
Geometry

I am reliving the process of learning that concept myself, both by explaining the concept in new ways and by seeing students wrestle with and eventually grasp the concept for themselves. For me, teaching is a way of "living vicariously" through students by experiencing the joy of learning once more.

Education

Princeton University

Bachelor in Arts

Test Scores
ACT
33
Kirby

Certified Tutor

8+ years

Kirby

Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry
Kirby's other Tutor Subjects
Calculus
Algebra
AP Chemistry
Biochemistry

I'm your girl! I majored in Biochemistry at the University of Michigan and am looking to help any students in need of assistance.

Education

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Bachelor of Science, Biochemistry

Test Scores
ACT
32

Meet Our Expert Tutors

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Spencer

12th Grade math Tutor • +78 Subjects

I am a graduate of Brigham Young University where I majored in International Relations and Russian and of Thunderbird School of Global Management where I earned an MBA in International Business. My college and graduate studies include coursework in Writing, Literature, Geography, History, Political Science, Russian, Music, Business, Math, Science, and Art. Because of my experience with many different disciplines, I am able to teach a wide variety of subjects and have experience working with students of all ages from middle school to middle aged. My greatest skill as a tutor is the ability to adapt challenging material to the viewpoint of my students. This allows me to build bridges of understanding that help more analytical people feel at home in creative disciplines or vice versa. If you are a gifted artist struggling with Math, or an aspiring scientist struggling with creative writing, I'm your man! I am also a very experienced writer and editor. In my free time I enjoy hiking, literature, ultimate Frisbee, international travel, soccer, baking, music, strategy games, and philosophical discussions. I have lived in Africa, Western Europe, and Russia and visited over a dozen countries. Please note that due to the many different subjects I have studied, the list of classes above is not complete. If you have tutoring needs for a very specific subject, I may well have taken a course in that area. Feel free to reach out with questions!

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Stella

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +22 Subjects

I am a second year student at the University of Minnesota's College of Science and Engineering pursuing a degree in Biomedical Engineering on the pre-med track. I have been online tutoring a variety of subjects and age groups since the start of the pandemic (about 2.5 years) but I especially enjoy working with high school students in math and physics classes as well as ACT math and english. I try to create a chill tutoring environment and want to make students feel comfortable to ask any questions-- no question is a stupid one! Additionally, I believe in learning by doing so as a result, much of my sessions will include working through actual problems. I'm excited to work with you as both a tutor and a mentor!

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Anisha

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +28 Subjects

I'm currently pursuing an MS in Biomedical Sciences as well with the ultimate goal of ending up in medical school. In high school I received a score of 1500 on my SAT, and was a National Merit Finalist as well with a PSAT score of 1470.

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William

AP Statistics Tutor • +58 Subjects

I am available to tutor Latin, physics, and all levels of math. Outside of academics, I am an avid tournament chess player, and I enjoy running and cycling.

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Steven

AP Calculus AB Tutor • +47 Subjects

I am a retired PhD chemical engineer with a desire to give back via tutoring. I focus on chemistry and physics. I like to explain complicated ideas one time, again in another way, and finish with practical examples.

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Brigit

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +44 Subjects

I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in Neuroscience and Sociology at the University of Pittsburgh on the pre-med track. I have always enjoyed teaching students, as I helped my two younger siblings with their schoolwork frequently growing up. I also have tutoring experience at a local tutoring agency teaching students aged 5-16 in math and reading, and I have learned how to effectively teach students at various ability levels and in different age groups through this experience. I am also a National Merit Finalist and Scholarship winner and an AP scholar, so I believe that I can provide helpful advice and tips for students who are navigating the difficult world of standardized testing. Through these experiences, I am confident that I can address your needs in subjects such as math, writing, and reading by working with you one-on-one and devising a plan to help you reach your goals.

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Kaitlyn

6th Grade math Tutor • +173 Subjects

I am a medical student committed to helping your student succeed. I have been a tutor for 5+ years, and have experience teaching Math, Science, Spanish and Test Prep to students of all ages and ability. I believe every child has the potential to learn with positive one on one attention and I am committing to helping you student learn how they study best, and become a more independent learner. I look forward to meeting you, and helping you achieve your goals! Hobbies: writing, reading, music, art, books

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Stanley

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +46 Subjects

I am a graduate of The University of Pennsylvania. I received my Bachelor of Arts History. Since graduation, I have worked in organizations that seek to enrich and empower the lives of students regardless of their age, skill level, and, I have tutored the children of immigrants in Brooklyn and Manhattan while working with private clients all over New York City. While I tutor a broad range of subjects, I am most passionate about Science, Mathematics, and History. In my experience helping struggling students prepare for Standardized Tests, we always seem to have the most fun (with remarkable advancements) prepping for the Critical Reading and Writing portions of the exams as well as the math component. I am a firm proponent of education, believing it to be absolutely necessary for an improved quality of life, and I try to impart this appreciation to all of my students. I make it my mission to impart to my students with the idea that they have the potential for greatness. I let them know with my words and actions that with the right nurturing, mentoring, and guidance they can become the best versions of themselves. I know that if they receive the necessary assistance and encouragement, they can achieve their fullest potential. In my spare time, I enjoy reading that which enriches my life, walking in the park, and the odd game of American Football.

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Tyler

AP Calculus BC Tutor • +38 Subjects

I am a student at UIUC majoring in Physics/Math and with plenty of experience teaching various STEM subjects such as math, science, CS, etc. As a student myself, I understand the many struggles of other students like me and I tailor my teaching styles to meet these needs. As someone who feels very strongly about our current education system, I've become strongly motivated to change the status quo by reaching as many students as I can through tutoring/teaching. As an aspiring physicist, mathematician, or maybe both, I wish to make these subjects fun and interesting like how I perceive them to be, instead of a grueling discipline that students have the get through. Outside of academia, I also love listening to music and have been a musician for the majority of my life. Hobbies: reading, cooking, music, writing, art, books

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Robert

Pre-Algebra Tutor • +87 Subjects

I am dedicated to helping others make sense of the world around them.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Social Studies requires students to synthesize information across multiple disciplines—history, geography, civics, and economics—which can feel overwhelming. Many students struggle with memorizing dates and facts, but the real challenge is developing critical thinking skills to analyze primary sources, understand cause-and-effect relationships, and form evidence-based arguments about complex historical and current events.

Additionally, students often find it difficult to connect abstract concepts like government systems or economic principles to real-world applications, and they may lack confidence in essay writing and document analysis—skills that are essential for success in Social Studies courses and standardized assessments.

In a classroom setting, teachers must move at a pace that accommodates 20-30 students with varying levels of understanding. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction allows tutors to slow down on topics where a student struggles—such as understanding the complexities of the Civil War or analyzing political ideologies—while accelerating through concepts they've already mastered.

A tutor can also tailor their teaching approach to match a student's learning style, whether that means using timelines and maps for visual learners, Socratic questioning for critical thinkers, or real-world case studies for students who learn best through application. This customization leads to deeper understanding and stronger retention than passive classroom instruction alone.

When you connect with a tutor through Varsity Tutors, they'll review your child's specific curriculum, textbook, and learning standards—whether that's state standards, Common Core, or International Baccalaureate. Tutors are familiar with grade-level expectations across elementary Social Studies (civics and community awareness), middle school (world history and geography), and high school (U.S. History, World History, AP courses, and government).

Your tutor will align instruction with the topics, themes, and skills your child is learning in class, ensuring that personalized sessions reinforce and extend what's happening in the classroom while preparing for tests, essays, and projects specific to your child's course.

An excellent Social Studies tutor combines subject-matter expertise with the ability to make abstract concepts tangible and engaging. They should be able to explain complex topics—from the causes of the French Revolution to the impact of supply and demand—in ways that click for your child, and they should ask thought-provoking questions that develop critical thinking rather than simply reciting facts.

Great tutors also understand how to teach the skills students need to succeed: analyzing primary and secondary sources, constructing evidence-based arguments, creating effective timelines and comparison charts, and writing compelling historical essays. They're patient with students who struggle with retention and passionate about helping students see Social Studies as a dynamic, relevant subject rather than a list of dates to memorize.

Students typically see measurable improvements in test scores and assignment quality within a few weeks of consistent tutoring. You can expect better performance on quizzes and exams, more confident and well-organized essay writing, and stronger analytical skills when discussing historical events and current issues.

Beyond grades, students often develop genuine interest and engagement with Social Studies content. They become more adept at class discussions, feel more prepared for presentations, and build the critical thinking skills that serve them across all subjects. For students preparing for AP exams, SAT/ACT history sections, or state assessments, tutors help them identify gaps in knowledge and master the specific skills tested on those assessments.

Yes—essay writing and document analysis are core competencies in Social Studies, and tutors specialize in developing these skills. They can teach students how to construct a strong thesis, organize evidence-based arguments, and write compelling introductions and conclusions. Tutors also help students practice analyzing primary sources by asking strategic questions: What is the author's perspective? What is the historical context? What biases might be present?

Whether your child is writing a DBQ (Document-Based Question) essay, a historical analysis, or a position paper on a current event, a tutor provides feedback, models effective writing techniques, and builds confidence through targeted practice and revision—skills that significantly improve performance on essays, projects, and standardized assessments.

AP Social Studies courses—including AP U.S. History, AP World History, AP Government and Politics, and AP Human Geography—require students to synthesize vast amounts of content and demonstrate analytical skills under time pressure. Tutors help students prioritize what to study, master the specific question formats (multiple-choice, short-answer, free-response essays), and develop strategies for managing time during the exam.

A tutor can identify knowledge gaps, help students master the thematic learning objectives tested on the AP exam, and provide structured practice with released exam questions and full practice tests. This targeted preparation boosts confidence and helps students achieve higher scores, whether their goal is a 3, 4, or 5 on the AP assessment.

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